Preparations started for the reconstruction of N8 in Veurne
For the past two weeks, preparations have been started for the reconstruction of the N8 on the territory of Veurne, up to the border with Alveringem. These are the most drastic works since the opening of the crater roundabout in May 2009, connecting the N8 to the E40.
“The contractor is currently demolishing several homes on the N8,” says Eveline Vandecaetsbeek of Roads and Traffic West Flanders. He is also preparing the entire site for construction so that they can start with the utility lines in March. Archaeological research is also underway to see if they can excavate anything.” Five buildings along the Iepersesteenweg have been expropriated, and the chip shop at the intersection in Beauvoorde also had to close. The well-known dance tent across the street is for sale but the catering business can continue to exist.
Little hindrance for the time being
Apart from some construction site traffic, the preparatory works will cause little traffic disruption. The actual reconstruction of the N8 will start after the construction leave next summer. The regional road will become safer and traffic must flow better. “We are going to greatly improve the situation for cyclists,” says Vandecaetsbeek. “These bicycles are now right next to the busy regional road. In the future we will build service roads that both local traffic and cyclists can use.
The file of the N8 and a possible extension of the A19 has been a hot topic in the region for almost 20 years. Flanders now provides almost 22 million euros for this part. Work will be carried out in later phases from Ypres to Woesten, but it will be a multi-year plan anyway.